Extension Rainfall Report for April 15-30

Hardin County – For the period of April 15-30, Extension rainfall reporters recorded an average of 1.72 inches of rain in Hardin County.

Last year, the average rainfall for the same period was 0.92 inches. Rainfall for the April 15-30 period is 0.42 inches less than the ten-year average rainfall during the same dates.

Dudley Township received 2.06 inches for the April 15-30 period, for the most of any of the township sites. Jackson Township received 1.30 inches, and Washington Township received 1.31 inches, for the April 15-30 period, the least of the township sites.

After some field work and early planting in mid-April, things slowed down due to wet soils and cool temperatures. Wheat currently looks good but has been growing slowly due to cooler temperatures. Alfalfa fields should also grow faster with increased heat units.

Farmers are hoping for fields to become fit to plant corn and soybeans. As temperatures warm up and winds pick up, soils should dry out and early planted fields should emerge. Farmers are encouraged not to work in wet fields as it compacts the soil and impacts yields.

Frequent rains combined with cool temperatures in early May has slowed evaporation and kept field conditions wet. As the weather improves, tillage operations will take place and herbicides will be sprayed.

Fertilizer and manure applications will also resume, providing nutrients for this year’s crops.

By Mark Badertscher